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What is Pandan Iced Tea?
This Pandan Iced Tea Recipe is a fragrant Filipino-style beverage made by simmering fresh pandan leaves and combining the aromatic infusion with brewed tea and a touch of sweetness. The result is a lightly sweet, floral, and refreshing iced drink that’s perfect for tropical weather.
Pandan leaves, often called the “vanilla of Southeast Asia,” are widely used in Filipino desserts like buko pandan, maja blanca, and gulaman. But when used in iced tea, they create a unique and naturally sweet aroma that instantly elevates an ordinary drink into something special.
If you enjoy refreshing homemade beverages like Melon Juice or Buko Juice, this pandan version is another must-try for your drinks rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Naturally aromatic and refreshing
✔ Easy to make with simple ingredients
✔ Budget-friendly and party-ready
✔ No artificial flavoring needed
✔ Perfect for hot Filipino weather
The combination of pandan and tea creates a balanced flavor—may konting bitterness from the tea, mild sweetness from the sugar, and that signature mabangong aroma from pandan. Hindi siya nakakaumay, making it ideal for daily drinking.
When to Serve Pandan Iced Tea
This drink is perfect for:
- Afternoon merienda
- Family gatherings and birthdays
- Summer parties and BBQ nights
- Everyday lunch refreshment
The Pandan Iced Tea best pairs especially well with grilled favorites like Chicken Inasal, making it a refreshing alternative to soda during heavy meals.
Ingredients
- 5–6 fresh pandan leaves, rinsed and tied into a knot
- 4 cups water
- 2 black tea bags
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices (optional garnish)
How to Make Pandan Iced Tea Recipe
- Bring water to a boil. Add tied pandan leaves and simmer for 8–10 minutes.
- Turn off heat and add tea bags. Steep for 3–5 minutes.
- Remove tea bags and pandan leaves. Stir in sugar while warm.
- Cool completely and refrigerate.
- Serve over ice and enjoy immediately.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate in a covered pitcher.
- Best consumed within 2–3 days.
- Stir before serving if sweetness settles.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pandan extract instead of fresh leaves?
Yes, but fresh leaves give a more natural aroma. Use extract sparingly.
2. Why is my iced tea bitter?
Over-steeping the tea bags can cause bitterness. Stick to 3–5 minutes only.
3. Can I make this ahead for parties?
Yes. Prepare a day in advance and keep chilled until serving.
4. Is this drink caffeine-free?
Since it uses black tea, it contains caffeine. Use herbal tea if you prefer caffeine-free.
5. Can I adjust the sweetness?
Absolutely. Start with 1/4 cup sugar and adjust to your preference.
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GV Mendez is a passionate food lover who delights in cooking, exploring, and experimenting with flavors. She brings a creative touch to every recipe, sharing her culinary ideas and insights with fellow food enthusiasts. As an author at Sarap Diaries, she inspires readers by turning each dish into a memorable and flavorful experience.
